Colombia Withdraws Bid for World Cup 2014

Colombia has withdrawn from the race to host football's World Cup in 2014. A Colombian Football Federation spokesman said a letter had been sent to football's world governing body informing FIFA of the decision.

The bid had been controversial within Colombia, with many criticizing the amount of money it would take to stage a World Cup, especially having to build new stadiums.

Colombia's decision to drop out of the running paves the way for Brazil to host football's biggest tournament. But Brazilian Football Confederation President Ricardo Teixeria says there is still work to be done for FIFA to give Brazil the right to host the 2014 World Cup. The host will be selected in November.

Even though it is South America's turn under the rotation system, FIFA president Sepp Blatter has already indicated the tournament could go elsewhere if an unsuitable bid is presented.

Security is a major worry in Brazil, and the nation is also facing an air traffic control crisis that has caused widespread delays over the last few months.